Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution
Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only. They are games of chance where the odds always favour the house. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and never view gambling as a way to earn income or solve financial problems.
At Speaking Out About Suicide, we're committed to promoting safe and responsible gaming practices while supporting your wellbeing.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling in New Zealand. This is a legal requirement designed to protect young people from the risks associated with gambling.
If you are under 18, please do not access gambling websites or services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or other difficult emotions
- Neglecting work, study, family, or social responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or experiencing financial difficulties because of gambling
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Lying about the extent or frequency of your gambling
- Using gambling as a way to solve financial problems
Self-Help Tools & Features
Most reputable online gambling platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you are willing to lose in a session or week
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time Limits: Set automatic session timeouts to prevent extended play
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
- Account Cooling Off: Take a break from gambling for a set period
Use these tools proactively. They are designed to protect your wellbeing.
Support Organizations & Helplines
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of these organisations:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation – Free helpline: 0800 664 262 | www.pgf.nz
- Gamblers Anonymous New Zealand – Support meetings across the country | www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
- Department of Internal Affairs – Gambling Support – www.dia.govt.nz/gambling-support
- 1737 Helpline (call or text 1737, free 24/7) – For crisis support and mental health
International Resources
- GamCare (UK) – www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion Scheme) – www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia) – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – www.ncpgambling.org | 1-800-522-4700
If You Need Help
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible. If you or someone close to you is struggling, please don't hesitate to reach out to one of the support organisations listed above. Help is confidential, free, and available right now.
Your wellbeing matters. Seek help today.
Important Disclaimer
This website is dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention and mental health. We promote responsible gaming practices because problem gambling is linked to increased risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts, please contact:
- 1737 Helpline (NZ): Call or text 1737 (24/7, free)
- Samaritans (NZ): 0800 726 666